Tonsai Waterfall in Phuket

Tonsai Waterfall highlights

Tonsai Waterfall is on the western side of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, a green area spanning around 22.28 sq km. In fact, you can walk through the park from the waterfall to Bang Pae. You can even hire a guide who'll help you point out interesting fauna and flora along the way.

There is an information centre where you can ask about a guide for hire. Note that all posters and announcements are written in Thai. There's also a 2-km and well-signed trail around the back of the waterfall. Cold drinks and snacks are often available at a small restaurant near the information centre.

If you're interested in tropical plants, you'll enjoy seeing the rare white-backed palms. First discovered in Thailand, this elegant palm has beautiful big circular leaves that are shaped like a fan, with a green upper surface and white underneath.

Tonsai Waterfall is a nice place for birdwatching as the rainforest is home colourful local birds, such as the red-billed malkoha, the greater racket-tailed drongo and red-backed sea eagle. Some of the many migratory birds you might spot here include the Siberian blue robin and forest wagtail.

Good to know about Tonsai Waterfall

Tonsai Waterfall is a good spot for an outing in Phuket as it's very family-orientated. There are ample WC facilities, a carpark, well-maintained gardens, a small playground, shaded areas, and camping spot. 

Locals often jump into the small natural pool of water and frolic around with their clothes on (T-shirts and shorts). Avoid wearing a bikini at any Thai waterfall if you don’t want to stand out.